Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Scene 4: A step closer

Luffy settled in his bath, not wanting to come out.

The warm water and soft bubbles calmed him.

He definitely wasn’t thinking about Law.

Why would he?

Law?

What Law?

The bath is nice, the water is nice, the oxygen is nice, the bubbles are nice…

Did he say the bath is nice?

Yes. yes of course, he nodded firmly, the kiss was nice too—

“Ugh.” He muttered, sinking lower until the water reached just below his nose.

Okay.. Maybe he was thinking about Law.

How could he not?

He just shared a kiss with his first and only ever crush.

Sure it wasn’t your ‘typical relationship’, but what if this could lead to something more?

What if Law actually came to like him outside of just being friends and they could make their ‘relationship’ real? Luffy blushed at the thought, a love struck grin spreading across his face.

“Aaaa, he’s just too cute!” He flailed in the bath, splashing water everywhere in excitement.

A worrying “Your Highness! Are you alright?!” came from the panicked voice just outside the door.

“Sorry!” he muttered, muffled by the bath water.

“How could I not want more?” his heart thudded in his chest. “He’s all I ever wanted,” his finger poked the bubbles at the edge of the tub.

Then he suddenly sat upright, water sloshing over the edges as he clutched his chest dramatically.

“I never thought I’d say this but thanks Monet,” he said, placing a hand over his heart as if bestowing her with some great honor.

“Who knew such a pest would be this useful?” He nodded to himself, pleased with his own revelation.

But now— now he had a serious problem.

“What to do?” He groaned, splashing water on his face. “I know I was the one who asked him to stay over but… how should we sleep? Like normal? What is even normal anymore???”

He gasped, “What. Should. I. Wear?!”

He paused for a moment before abruptly shaking his head, giggling as he shrugged. “Luffy, don’t be silly.” he mocked, running a hand through his wet hair.

It wasn’t like this was his first time sleeping in the same bed with Law, so why was his heart racing so much? Why couldn’t he stop thinking about the kiss earlier?

“Am I thinking about this too much? Law would say,” he cleared his throat before mimicking Law’s usual deadpan tone, “You idiot, just go to bed.”

He slid down the tub, hands gripping both sides.

“Law would be all calm about it, composed, like the little lord he is. Completely unaffected by any of this” He mumbled before sinking fully beneath the water, his dark hair floating around him.

‘What is Law even doing right now?’

Law was everything but calm.

After spending an unnecessary amount of time in the bathroom trying to calm himself and put a lid on his pheromones, he finally stepped outside, only to find Corazon chatting it up with the yardmen.

The moment Corazon saw him, his grin widened.

“To what do I owe the honor of My Lord coming to see me right after releasing himself from his ‘trap’?” He teased, wiggling his brows.

“Shut up.” Law muttered, rolling his eyes. “I need… some clothes. I won’t be returning home tonight.”

“Just for tonight?” Corazon tilted his head in amusement.

“Cora.” Law glared at him.

“Kidding, kidding~” he laughed. “I’ll get them for you.”

“Thanks. Give it to the first person you see when you return and head back. Your old bones must need some rest” Law smirked.

That earned him a solid slap up the head.

“Ow!”

“By any chance… does this have anything to do with what went down at breakfast this morning.” Corazon asked.

Law froze, the tip of his ears turning red as he replayed what the conversation at breakfast led to. He kissed Luffy. An act he never thought he’d get to experience in this lifetime.

“N–No.” He quickly turned his face, waving Corazon off. “It’s just one of our regular sleepovers.”

Corazon hummed knowingly. “In the same bed~?” he teased in a playful voice.

Law flinched, slowly looking around like his joints needed oiling. “I–I’m not sure,” his voice quieter.

“C’mon, why so tense Law?” Corazon leaned in, “It is one of your ‘regular sleepovers’ right? Don’t you usually sleep in the same bed without a second thought? What’s got you overthinking now?”

Law always found him insufferable.

“One more word and I’m telling Dad to replace you.” Law stormed off.

Corazon laughed all the way back to the carriage. “He’s so easy to read. So that happened huh?” he gestured to the footman, as he entered the carriage. “How interesting.”

Law walked back slowly to Luffy’s chambers but was stopped mid hall. One of the maids had told him that the bath Luffy requested for him was ready.

Corazon would take at least forty minutes. Perhaps he could use that time to clean up as he waits for his clothes. After all, not seeing Luffy so soon would do wonders for his self control.

Law followed the maid diligently, entering the room with a slight nod of thanks as he spoke, “Corazon will be dropping off some clothes for me. Please carry it here once you’ve received it.”

“Duly noted My Lord.”

He closed the door with a soft click, sealing himself inside the private bath.

Law stripped down, entering the bath with a hiss. Luffy had a habit of bathing in hot water, so the maids got used to preparing the baths to his preference, a little too hot for Law’s taste.

But it may just be what he needs right now. A hot bath to burn away these thoughts.

Outside of their kiss, they weren’t doing anything remotely new. Sleeping together was something they often did, although it wasn’t really planned out like this. It usually just happened, if they got too comfortable to move.

So why did he feel like this right now? Why did he find it so hard to calm himself down?

“I’m so stupid.” He mumbled, throwing his head back. Luffy was doing all this just for him, yet all he could do was think about himself and his desires.

“I should at least try to act like I usually do. I can’t have him forcing himself to have sex with me just because he thinks it’ll help with me not getting married off.” Law sighed.

But how could he act normal? He got the chance to kiss the one he wanted— needed the most. It would be unfair to think he’d be able to stay calm under these conditions. His pheromones even leaked, which was unlike him.

“He’s just too adorable.” Law sighed, sliding down to rest his head on the back of the tub. “Who knew he’d be so…” He closed his eyes, “so sweet, like a god damn candy.”

Now that he got a taste of Luffy, he knew that it would be hard to act like he didn’t want more.

He usually felt like he could cum just by the feeling of holding Luffy in his arms. Having kissed him now, it’s so much fucking worse.

“…”

“Ngh, down boy.” he crossed his legs, shutting off the ‘I want to fuck him’ thoughts creeping in the back of his head.

“Who needs sleep anyway? I’ll just stay up.” Not like he could sleep after all that.

He soaked for a few more minutes, his mind finally clearing up, allowing him to think outside of Luffy—or rather, fucking him.

“Corazon should be here soon.”

“I can’t leave this bathroom.”

Luffy had been standing in front of the mirror for over ten minutes now. He hadn’t been able to gather his composure to face Law again.

“He left so sudden. Did I make him mad?”

“No of course he wasn’t,” he shook his head. “He would furrow his brows like this if something displeased him,” pointing waving fingers at his eyebrows.

Luffy kept muttering as he paced back and forth in the bathroom.

“I need to calm down. I need to calm down. I need to calm down. I need to calm down.” He voiced repeatedly.

A sudden knock at the door jolted him from his spiraling thoughts.

“Yes?!”

“You-your highness? You’ve been in there for quite some time. Do you need help with anything?”

“N-No… I’m sorry. I’ll be out soon.” He said quietly, in an apologetic voice. “You may leave for the night.”

“I really need to calm down.” Luffy huffed, dragging his palms down his face.

He finally managed to pull himself from the bathroom, water dripping from the ends of his hair as he made his way slowly down the hall to his room.

The air was cooler outside the bath, sending a slight shiver down his spine.

As he pushed opened the door, his eyes landed on Law.

He was standing in front of the window, hands in his pajama pant’s pockets, turning at the sound of the door opening, meeting Luffy’s eyes.

“Wow, you still have skin? I thought you were washing it off with how long you stayed in the bath.” Law gasped, mock surprise on his face.

‘Nervous for what?’ Luffy narrowed his eyes at Law’s remark. It was just as if nothing happened, he exhaled a breath softly, relieved.

“Yeah yeah shut up,” Luffy muttered, waving him off as he moved toward the closet, “I was... having a moment. It takes quite some time to look this pretty.”

Law snorted as Luffy pulled out the clean cover he asked for earlier. “Oh please, spare me the jokes.”

“Here.” He tossed it on the bed, “I should just let you sleep on the floor.”

“You ask me to be of company, only to threaten me? Is this how you treat your guests?” Law raised a brow, holding his chest as if he took offense.

Law was happy they could still joke around like this, without being awkward. Thankfully he was worried for nothing.

Luffy rolled his eyes. “I’m pretty sure you’re not considered a guest, idiot.”

“I guess I should just ask for another room then?”

Luffy froze, slowly pulling out a towel to dry his hair. He quickly cleared his throat, “You’re annoying, you know that?” bringing his hands to focus on drying his hair.

Law chuckled as he stepped closer to Luffy, plucking the towel from his hands.

“I’m sorry, let me help.” He said, his voice stripped of its teasing.

He slipped his free hand into Luffy’s, pulling him to sit nestled between his legs on the bed bench, while he sat behind on the edge of the bed.

Law looked down at Luffy’s hair dripping onto his shoulders through his nightshirt. It was obvious that he barely bothered to dry himself off.

“You really should dry your hair properly. You’re going to catch a cold if you keep it wet like this.”

Luffy hummed in response, unconcerned, as the towel landed on his head. Law’s hands followed, rough yet careful as they worked through his hair, rubbing away the lingering moisture.

“I could’ve done it myself you know.”

“Then why didn’t you?” Law countered, ignoring the glare shot at him as he continued ruffling Luffy’s hair in slow, circular motions.

Luffy leaned back into Law’s lap, his eyes fluttering shut as his body relaxed.

“How long has it been since you got a haircut?” Law asked, running his fingers through the strands as he dried them.

Luffy opened one eye, “Hmm when was the last time you dragged me to get one?”

Law scoffed, shaking his head. “That long huh?” He eased Luffy’s head up out of his lap.

“I should’ve known. You never go unless I make you.” He sighed, inspecting the ends of his hair. “Marguerite and Porche would love to make braids in your hair like they did when you were a baby.”

Luffy snickered, “they would love that yes.”

Law finished up quickly, tossing the damp towel onto Luffy’s lap. “There. All done, don’t be so careless next time and dry it properly before you come to your room.” He said as he brushed a few stray strands from his forehead.

Luffy blinked up at him, eyes slightly hazy with heavy lids, “Too bad. I might make it a habit now.”

Law clicked his tongue, moving up on the bed, pulling the covers Luffy threw earlier beside him. He could see that Luffy was tired just by his eyes.

“Put that away and come to bed.” Law said.

Luffy walked lazily towards his chest of drawers, placing the towel on top of it. He made a mental note to put it in his laundry basket as soon as he woke in the morning.

He made it halfway onto the bed, flopping forward, arms spread wide.

Law sighed at the act, pulling the sheets free to make a space for Luffy to lay beside him, “Come.”

Luffy snuggled into his spot as Law tugged the covers over his curled-up form. “You’re not sleeping too?” He asked, peaking above the sheets.

“Don’t worry about me and sleep.”

Luffy hummed, throwing his hands over the sheets on either side of his body. “It’s cold tonight, you should get under the covers too.”

“I’m fine Lu, just sleep.”

“How can I sleep while my guest freezes to death?” Luffy said flatly, earning a chuckle from Law.

“Fine, fine.” Law settled himself under the sheets, pulling the covers up to his waist. “Now, are you happy?”

“Hmm, no. Cover your stomach, you’re going to catch a cold like this.”

Law quickly picked up on what Luffy was doing, now turning on his side to face him. “You think you’re funny?”

“Whatever do you mean?” Luffy shrugged, feigning ignorance as he turned to face Law. “It is cold, you’re leaving your chest out, you’ll catch a cold, no?”

“You’re annoying, you know that?”

“Hey, that’s my line!” Luffy grinned.

Law rolled his eyes, ignoring the weak protest, pulling the covers over his shoulders. He was doing this because it was indeed cold, not because Luffy told him to.

“Ah, now I can sleep.” Luffy tucked his hands back into the sheets. He scooched closer to Law, leaving a small space between them.

Law turned on his back, closing his eyes. He already decided to pretend to sleep so that Luffy would go to sleep.

But he could feel Luffy’s eyes staring at him.

He planned to ignore it of course, giving him attention would only deter his slumber.

Law waited, and waited…. and waited some more, but the eyes never left his face. Failing to ignore the weight of Luffy’s eyes, he decided to break the silence.

Without opening his eyes he muttered, “You’ve been staring quite a lot today—”

“Can I ask you something?”

Law peeked out of one of his eyes, looking down at Luffy. The usual sweetness in Luffy’s scent dulled, leaving a faint bitterness. Law knew he should probably choose his next words carefully before answering to whatever came next.

“Sure…”

“…”

“Luffy?”

“If I had said no, what would you have done?”

Both of Law’s eyes opened at the question. He hummed in thought as he didn’t actually think that through. After all…

“I’m not quite sure. Probably would be getting dragged to Dressrosa the minute you disagreed.”

Luffy propped himself on one elbow, resting his chin against his palm, “You’d actually… agree to it?” he asked, brows furrowed. “You’d marry her?”

Law shuddered at the thought. Hell no he wanted to say, but how could he justify his reason without saying it’s because he desired Luffy and not her?

“I wouldn’t– I don’t like her? in that way?” He said, like he was asking himself a question. He wasn’t sure he liked her at all. She was just someone who spawned in their space at times.

“Then in what way do you like her? I’m surprised you even extend your ‘like’ to her at all.” Luffy pressed on, brows furrowed.

Law sniffed. Shit. Luffy was getting mad.

“Meaning,” he said carefully, “I don’t have a reason to hate her. She’s tolerable at least. Not to the point where I’d marry her for christ’s sake.”

Luffy opened his mouth to say something else but before he could get a word out, Law quickly turned on his side, pulling him in his arms to silence him.

He could tell Luffy was getting even more annoyed and made a mental note not to mention Monet or anything remotely related to the arrangement around him ever.

“Aren’t you tired Lu? You’ve been quite talkative tonight.” He pressed a kiss to Luffy’s forehead.

Luffy's brain short circuited at the sudden action. He knew Law was doing this to get him to stop with the questions, and damn him, it worked. He huffed out a breath, melting in Law’s arms.

“Just tell me you want me to stop bothering you.” He pouted, snuggling his nose in Law’s chest, if defeat was this comforting he’d happily accept it.

Law hooked a finger under Luffy’s chin, tilting his head up from his chest to meet his eyes.

“I didn’t mean it like that, you don’t bother me. I just know you’re tired, so I want you to sleep.” His voice low and sultry as he pressed a kiss to Luffy’s lips, “Okay?”

Luffy stilled, blaming his tiredness for giving in this easily, definitely not because of a simple kiss, nope.

“Fine.” He blushed, his cheeks tinged pink, “I’ll be convinced if you give me another kiss,” he whispered into the space between them.

Law chuckled into the kiss, his hand brushing Luffy’s cheek, caressing his face as he melted into the kiss. It was soft, sweet.

The faint rustling of the sheets as they moved closer, pressing into each other, coupled with the soft sounds of their kiss filled the room.

Their rhythm slowed as they pulled away from each other’s lips, reluctantly.

Luffy nuzzled his head back in Law’s chest, mumbling a “hmm that just might do” before draping his hand over Law’s waist.

Law smiled at the spoiled brat in his arms, moving his hand to Luffy’s back, patting him to sleep. He sure wasn’t going to sleep now, a blush settling on his cheeks.

Or so he thought.

After checking that Luffy had fallen asleep, he felt tiredness creeping in his eyes. A yawn escaped from him as he shifted his head to rest atop Luffy’s.

He followed after a couple of minutes.

”Young master Law, Sir Corazon is here for you. He said you have a joint training session with the instructor from Wano today. You must make haste to reach in time.”

The room was filled with the quiet hush of the early morning, the sky barely beginning to color.

Law laid still for a few minutes, savoring the view in front of his sleep filled eyes—Luffy asleep in his arms. He ran a tired hand through his hair before sighing softly, pulling Luffy away slowly, as if it pained him.

He had forgotten all about it. Though he was the one who arranged the date, he thought he could sleep in with Luffy today.

Luckily, neither the knock, the brief conversation nor his movements woke the little prince.
It was pretty early and Luffy wasn’t a morning person.

Law looked at the time, “5:20” he muttered, cursing his past self for choosing a 7 am training time.

He quickly slipped into the training attire Corazon brought, moving towards the window to signal that he would be down shortly.

His eyes stayed on Luffy as he buttoned his shirt, almost ready to leave. Who knew leaving early could feel this close to a broken heart? Law was convinced it actually would break his heart.

His eyes remained on him as he pinned his family crest, though he could only see Luffy’s fluffy hair sticking out, as the rest of him was fully under the covers.

He looked so cute, and Law could imagine the position he was in—on his side with his hands tucked between his thighs, searching for warmth.

Once Law was all ready, he stepped closer to the bed, steeling himself. He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Luffy’s forehead. His lips lingered for a second longer than intended before he pulled back, careful not to wake him.

But then he felt like one wasn’t enough, moving to kiss him again.

And again.

And again.

As he straightened, the creak of the bed caused by his movements stirred Luffy from his sleep.

“mmmm,” Luffy groaned, a sudden grip on Law’s sleeves as his fingers curled around his arm.

“ere are you ing his ly?” Where are you going this early? Luffy mumbled, his eyes thick with sleep, barely above a whisper.

“Go back to sleep, I’ll be back soon.” Law whispered.

“… say sill fast?” Luffy mumbled incoherently. ‘Can’t you stay ‘til breakfast?’

Law had his masters in Luffy’s sleepy talk.

Even in the dim light, he could tell that Luffy was trying to fight sleep to keep him there.

Law exhaled, a small smile forming at Luffy’s cuteness. “I have training,” he spoke in soft whispers, shifting to lay beside Luffy, running his fingers up and down his back as he tried to put him back to sleep before he lost his resolve.

Luffy hummed but his grip didn’t loosen just yet, trying to keep Law there for just a little longer, saddened that he would leave so soon.

Law indulged him, resuming his gentle pats as he waited for Luffy to fall asleep. He pressed one last kiss to his forehead to unfurrow his brows before pulling away.

Only when Luffy’s fingers loosened and his breaths evened out did Law stand slowly, placing Luffy’s hand back under the covers.

With one last glance at the sleeping figure curled up on the bed, he quietly made his way out, shutting the door with a careful click.

That morning, the warmth beside him was gone.

Luffy stretched out an arm, searching blindly for the presence that had been there just five hours ago, but all he was met with was empty sheets.

He frowned, shifting onto his back as his palms came to rub the sleep from his face.

As he laid there, the memories of earlier came trickling in. The soothing weight of Law’s hand on his back, the hushed promise that he’d see him soon.

“Right, training…”

Rolling onto his side, his gaze landed on his fingers, the ones that had held Law’s sleeve before he left.

Slowly, he curled them toward his palm, pressing them against his lips as he grumbled a quiet, “I miss him already” before drifting back to sleep.

Luffy was bored.

He had been walking the halls of his home, the Goa Palace, hoping to get some entertainment until Law returned.

‘Law should be back soon,’ After all, his training sessions normally lasted until noon.

He just needed to find at least one person who was willing to play with him until then, which, oddly he might add, was much harder today than any other day.

Everyone he tried to talk to was busy.

Suspiciously busy.

“Porche can we—”

“Very busy, Your Highness! I have a little laundry to do.”

Weird, laundry was done on Saturdays, today was Wednesday. Not to mention, she went in the opposite direction of the laundry room. Luffy hummed in thought.

“Marigold, Marguerite can I—”

“So sorry, we have, uhh, the floors! yes! The floors to clean Your Highness…”

The floors were practically sparkling.

“Sai and Leo, would you be—”

“We have some trimming to complete in the yard little prince.”

“Lola—”

“—I’m Sorry!”

“Amande—”

“—Another time!”

“Streusen, can I have a treat?”

“No. Kitchen closed.”

It was 4 pm. He was due to have at least another snack by now.

Luffy was being pushed out with a spatula before he could protest.

“Ahhhh! what is wrong with everyone?!” Luffy thrashed in frustration, gripping his head as he dropped to his knees. Why was everyone ignoring him? It was obvious they were all in on it, whatever it was.

Had he done something wrong? Did he forget an important day?

“What in the heavens is going on?” he muttered, feeling a little defeated. They were usually excited to be around him.

“…..ss ...y”

“….ness Luffy.”

“Your ….ness!”

“Luffy!”

Luffy’s head shot up as he searched around, trying to find out where—and why— he was suddenly hearing his name being called out, barely above a whisper.

Then, his eyes finally caught sight of her, the hushed voice was coming from Chiffon, one of the palace’s pastry chefs.

She was one of Luffy’s favorites, as she would randomly give him pastries throughout the week, sometimes even late at night, when she needed a taste tester for her new recipes.

Without hesitation, Luffy scurried over to her, crawling into the storage room to the left of the hall.

“Chiffon, do you know why—”

“Shhushh!”

A quiet whine left his saddened lips, “...what is it with you all and shushing me since morning.”

“I’m sorry, Your Highness, but please do not be offended. We are simply under very strict rules.” She whispered in an apologetic voice while pulling out a tightly wrapped cloth, unfolding it to reveal freshly baked chocolate chip scones—the very same ones that Head Chef Streusen had been preparing.

Luffy smiled in delight, now content and quietly listening.

“His Majesty Garp told us that we were not to entertain you for the coming days, as you will be resuming your studies with Lady Nico soon. He wanted you to use the time for studying, so that you may start preparing for those sessions.” She spoke quietly, brushing the crumbs from Luffy’s mouth.

His eyes narrowed, frowning, “Tch, that damn old geezer.”

That explained why they were all acting as if merely looking in his direction would have them beheaded.

Garp wasn’t a tyrannical King, but when it came to Ace, Sabo and Luffy’s studies, he was very relentless.

Luffy was going to resume his Nobility and History lessons with Lady Robin next week, that much was true, but how was he supposed to focus when his mind refused to think of anything outside of a certain golden-eyed idiot?

And why would Garp give out such orders without notifying him first? He was definitely not going to study after hearing that.

“Thanks Chiffon. Sorry if I’ve caused trouble.” He sniffed, taking another big bite of his chocolate chip scone, dropping crumbs everywhere.

“Not at all my prince! You know we would never intentionally ignore you.” Chiffon hushed, giving Luffy a napkin to wipe his mouth.

“I told you to call me Luffy, Chiffon.” he frowned, puffing out his cheeks.

“Right, right, Luffy” she nodded, ruffling his hair.

They remained there for a few more minutes, hiding as Luffy finished his scones.

Chiffon quickly cleaned up and went back to the kitchen, while Luffy, having no other options, made his way back to his room to wait indefinitely for Law.

As soon as he was back in his room, Luffy headed straight for the balcony. From there, he’d have the perfect view of the gates and the best chance of spotting Law’s carriage the moment it arrived.

Luffy waited and waited… and waited some more, eyes fixed on the entrance. But the more time passed, the more impatient he grew.

He whined, draping himself dramatically over the railing like a discarded coat as his hands hung in the air, resting his chin on the cold metal.

The evening breeze tousled his messy hair as he watched the sun begin to set, painting the sky in different hues of orange.

He had waited all day and still no sight of Law.

He told himself that he wouldn't be upset, that Law was just busy and maybe training went on a little later than usual. After all, it was Zoro’s last week in the capital before he was deployed to the King’s office at the north border.

He shouldn't be upset, after all they weren’t even dating and this wasn't his first time being away from Law so why—a small ache settled in his chest.

Law was busy, Law had things to do outside of being with him, he knew that, but as the palace grounds grew quieter and the lights flickered as the sky darkened, he couldn't help but feel—

He sighed heavily, not knowing how he truly felt. Was it disappointment? Sadness? Loneliness?

All he knew was that his mind was far, far away, stuck in the void of longing for one annoying, grumpy, golden-eyed, gorgeous and hot man.

Luffy groaned loudly, sliding further down the railing. “Law you liar…” he whined as he settled on the floor. “You said you’d be back.”

“Maybe I should just study for the night like Grandpa said.” Luffy hummed in thought. “No… I doubt I’d retain anything in this condition.” he dragged his hands down his face.

With Ace and Sabo away from the palace and all servants ignoring him, thanks to Garp’s wonderful orders, Luffy was left alone with his thoughts.

Thoughts that kept wandering to Law.

And not just any Law, the ‘Law’ last night.

How was he supposed to focus on ancient history when his mind was busy replaying their kiss over and over and over again, like a broken music box?

How was he supposed to focus on the importance of the Poneglyphs and their crucial role in uncovering the mysteries of the Void Century, when all he can think of is Law’s fingers on his skin, holding his waist, pulling him in tenderly?

How, just how, could he focus on the archaeological history of Ohara when his heart was beating at the very same rhythm of their first kiss?

Luffy rolled onto his back, groaning once more—only this time, not in agony.

He knew Law would be a pretty good kisser, but he didn't expect him to be that good.

Law’s hands all over his body, his fingers holding his face delicately, the feeling of sleeping against his chest as they cuddled like nothing happened.

Like it was meant to happen.

How could he ever get a review session in, when his mind was filled with all these thoughts?

The feeling of Law’s toned abs on his stomach and the thought of how he was about to give up much, much more if Law had just said yes—

Luffy sat up quickly, his face beet red, murmuring “I need some fresh air.” like he wasn’t already getting ‘fresh air’ from the balcony.

He walked aimlessly until his feet carried him to the palace garden.

The breathtaking expanse of greenery was exactly what he needed to clear his head, to keep his mind from circling back to Law.

The garden was filled with carefully decorated stone pathways, bordered by the vibrant rows of roses, lilies, sunflowers, hydrangeas and daisies, all blooming in their dazzling display of color under the evening sky.

The marble fountain stood at the garden’s centre, filling the air with a soothing sound as each droplet splashed in the water below.

Beyond the flower beds and the fountain, there was a secluded bench nestled on the delicate grounds of the vine covered gazebo. The self illuminating lights made it even more gorgeous at nights, highlighting the beauty of it all and offering a quiet moment of peace.

This was often Luffy’s getaway spot whenever Garp tried to force him into extensive study sessions, or when he expected him to play the perfect omega prince in the eyes of foreign guests.

Here, he could forget about the weight of expectations being the only omega of the house. The endless lessons on diplomacy, etiquette and history that he barely had the patience for.
A place where he could escape his mind, and now, a getaway to distract him from thinking about Law.

As Luffy walked along the pathway, running his hands over the blossoming flowers, his eyes landed on what seemed to be a large, dark, round stone.

Only, it wasn’t a stone, it was a—

“Beetle!” Luffy squealed.

“Wowww, you’re so cool and shiny! I haven’t seen one this big in years!”

Luffy’s eyes remained fixed on the stag beetle, crouching down to pick up the rather large insect. He had a deep love for bugs but was often scolded whenever he carried them inside the palace.

He was told off for scaring the maids, especially Porche and Marguerite, so he was banned from venturing into the garden without a guard when he was much younger.

“You’re my friend for tonight.” Luffy declared, gently tapping the beetle’s mandible.

“I had no choice but to come here you know, everyone refused to play with me.”
His voice trailed off.

“Damn gramps, why do I have to review before the lessons even start? I know all about the stupid court and the history, it’s all Law mindlessly talks about whenever he starts to ramble—”

Luffy flinched, rolling his eyes. Law again.

He didn't even last a good minute before his mind went back to him.

He sighed deeply, holding the beetle closer to his face.

“Tell me, have you seen a tall, grumpy bastard anywhere? Black hair? Gold eyes? Walks around looking like someone stole his favorite book?”

The beetle flickered its elytra.

“Like you could actually answer me.” He chuckled at how silly he must sound.

It's all Law’s fault, the fact that he’s bored and that he’s mindlessly talking to a beetle.

“Law you sleazy liar, when I see you, I swear—”

“Hmmm. Should I be scared?”

That voice—Law.

Standing with his hands clasped behind his back, leaning against one of the gazebo’s marble pillars.

Luffy’s mind went blank, a shudder running through his spine at the sudden appearance.

Don’t turn around, don’t turn around, don’t turn around, he chanted in his mind, desperately trying to steel himself as he did not want to give Law the satisfaction of seeing him flustered.

“I heard from Sai and Leo that you were wandering around, who knew you were cursing me out too?” Law continued.

“...”

Luffy remained silent, refusing to meet Law’s gaze or respond to him, mentally cursing at the way his face heated up at the mere presence of the man.

Law tilted his head, breathing in the scent filled with all the words Luffy wanted to shout at him.

Luffy’s restraint was rather impressive though, considering how long Law was gone for.

“Not speaking to me now?”

“You hadn’t shown, the day is almost done.” he huffed.

Law chuckled softly, taking small steps towards Luffy, “I’m here now aren’t I, Your Highness?”

“A little too late.” Luffy shuffled closer to the garden bed, eyes still on the beetle in his hands.
“Luffy—”

“I wouldn’t have expected you to return if you hadn’t mentioned it. What else if not that you broke your word?”

“I didn’t break my word Lu, I just got caught up wi—”

“You could have sent a message.” Luffy spat, glancing over his shoulders.

Law exhaled slowly through his nose. Whenever Luffy was upset, he barely allowed Law to get a word in. The minute he thought he had heard enough, he would cut him off.

The only right thing to do was listen without showing any signs of annoyance, as he knew that a single wrong word or move would have Luffy storming off.

“You’re right, I’m sorry.” Law spoke softly, closing the distance to stand behind Luffy. “I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Luffy blinked, caught off guard. He was expecting another excuse, or a tease, not an apology.

“Whatever. N–not that I was waiting for you or anything.” he muttered under his breath.

“So…”Law drawled, “I guess you don’t want to see me, which also means you don’t want this chocolate cake?” pulling his hands from behind his back to reveal the clear container holding the cake.

He knew exactly how to handle Luffy’s attitude and chip away at his stubborn defenses. He wasn’t his best friend for nothing.

Luffy tilted his head slightly to peek at Law’s hand, cursing himself almost immediately for being so weak.

“M–Maybe..” He looked away, trying to maintain his resolve as he placed the beetle back down in the flower bed.

“I guess I’ll just have to leave and have it by myself then, since the person I bought it for doesn’t want it.” Law teased, noticing the wavering tone in Luffy’s voice, which made him relieved.

An upset Luffy was more than he could handle after all that hours of training.

“I didn't say I don't want it,” Luffy rolled his eyes. “You–you should’ve stayed at training all day if you were going to bother me this late,” he mumbled, trying to resist from giving in.

“Hmmm but this cake and I are a two for one deal. You want the cake, I have to stay as well.”

“…”

“Going once.”

“…”

“Going twice…”

“Fine!”

“Oops, now I've changed my mind. I’ll just leave since you don’t want me here.” Law turned on his heel to leave, giving a dramatic sigh.

“Wait!” Luffy stood up quickly to pull Law's shirt, gripping it tightly to stop him from leaving.

“Hmm? What is it Lu?” Law smirked, glancing down at the hand clutching him.

“I want it.” Luffy whispered, looking down at his feet.

“You’ll have to do more than that to convince me.” Law’s tone was dripping with mischief.
“… you’re infuriating.” Luffy scowled, narrowing his eyes.

“Sorry? I didn’t hear that?” Law cupped his ears.

Luffy groaned as he shifted to face Law. He needed that cake.

Tucking away his frustration, he lifted his arms, gently wrapping them around Law’s neck—a motion that sent Law’s heart racing. His fingers brushed through the soft strands of Law’s hair, standing tiptoed as he locked eyes with Law’s.

The closeness and the weight of Luffy’s touch unraveled Law’s playful teasing in less than a second. He could feel the steady rhythm of Luffy’s breath against his lips, as he leaned in unbearably close.

“Stay.” Luffy whispered softly like a quiet plea. This made it impossible for Law to step away, no matter how much his mind screamed at him to. “Please?”

Law stood frozen in place.

“Don’t be so stubborn when you’re the one who kept me waiting.” Luffy pouted.

Law tried to pull all his threads of self control together, fighting the urge to have Luffy and the cake right here, right now. His eyes flickered between Luffy’s eyes and his lips. When did he get so sly?

“I thought you said you weren’t waiting for me?” Law loosened his hold on the container.

Luffy snickered, carefully gliding his fingers down to Law’s when he saw that Law lowered his defenses. “I don’t quite recall saying such a thing. Do you have any witnesses?”

He leaned in further, and with a swift grab, he snatched the container out of Law’s hand.
“Thanks!” Luffy shouted with a grin, skipping over to the bench.

Law, stunned, tilted his head back before exhaling a laugh. How stupid, he thought (hoped) that Luffy was going to kiss him.

Well, what else should he have expected?

Luffy sat down, patting the free space beside him for Law to sit, but in quick steps, Law came to settle at his feet.

“How is it? I heard it was new on the menu.”

“It’s good!” Luffy’s eyes lit up, humming as he swallowed a quick bite. “Do you want to try it?”

Law shook his head, “No, I bought it for you.” His stomach was in knots. He couldn’t eat anything now. He’d definitely end up with indigestion.

Then, he remembered why he came with a cake in the first place.

“I… must leave soon, so I won’t be staying tonight.”

“Why?”

Disappointment was visible on Luffy’s face, even though he tried to hide it.

“You know Zoro’s leaving soon so Corazon is pressuring us to have a few more sessions together.” Law sighed as he rubbed the back of his head.

“‘Making the most of the minutes we have left’ is what he called it,” he mocked, “but really Lu it’s just torture.”

Law hated it. He thought he would’ve been able to spend more time with Luffy but Corazon just had to put a lid on his plans.

During the 14 (long) hours that passed, it took an immense amount of effort to stay away from Luffy. Not seeing him for another day or two could very well kill him.

“Oh, right... right, okay!”

Why was he disappointed? Did he expect Law to stay for another night when he had only asked for one? It’s not like they’d start sleeping together every night now. He didn’t need an excuse.

“I will remember to see him before he leaves.” Luffy gave a quick (fake) smile, taking another bite of his cake.

Tsk. Luffy didn’t have to do all that. But instead of voicing his disgust, Law brought his hand to ruffle Luffy’s hair, “Sure.”

Was he a bit disappointed that Luffy hadn’t asked him to stay? Maybe, but that wouldn’t be fair to voice. They weren’t dating.

“Now, can I be introduced to the new friend you found earlier?”